A good sidekick is hard to find, and the following characters had our heroes’ backs. Whether they helped keep them sane or assisted on the battlefield, they were essential to the journey. Unfortunately, sidekicks rarely get their taste of the limelight, as the hero usually ends up getting all the recognition. Today we’re changing that by giving these secondary characters their time to shine. Here are the best sidekicks to grace video games in 2014.
Reggie (Infamous Second Son)
Reggie is a true brother, always having his delinquent brother Delsin’s back whether he agreed with him or not, despite being a cop. Things only get further complicated when Delsin discovers he can absorb conduit powers. Reggie voices his disapproval about Delsin using them, but that doesn’t stop Delsin. Before Reggie knows it, he’s helping his brother scour Seattle in an attempt to find Augustine and save their reservation. Reggie is there through thick and thin, helping Delsin battle D.U.P forces, even during times where he doesn’t agree with Delsin’s tactics. But perhaps what makes Reggie stand out most on this list is just how far he’ll go to ensure his brother’s safety.
Cassandra (Dragon Age: Inquisition)
You enter Dragon Age: Inquisition with Cassandra at your side, and she never stops being a confidant and voice of reason. Cassandra is a good person who just wants to see things get better, and she recognizes that more in-fighting isn’t going to make that happen. Her passion and idealism comes through in every conversation, always motivating you to trust in yourself and fight that much harder. She’s constantly uplifting with her belief in your ability to achieve and to win. In a way, you’re all she has, but the fact she has so much faith in you, no matter your background or choices, goes to show someone you know will always fight with you, instead of against you. Every hero needs someone pushing them through the hard times along the way, and that’s Cassandra. She battles with you, but she’s also an amazing adviser.
Riley (The Last of Us: Left Behind)
Ellie and Riley have a complicated relationship, but nothing is more endearing in Left Behind than seeing the two pal around together in a shopping mall. Yes, enemies are lurking, but it’s a good change of pace to see them try on masks, have a brick-throwing competition, and play on a carousel. Unfortunately, things in a post-apocalyptic world aren’t all fun and games and the girls also have to confront dangers. Riley stands her ground, helping Ellie fight off the runners and get around barriers. However, it’s when the two face their darkest revelation yet that Riley shines as Ellie’s support system. “But we fight…”
Max (Valiant Hearts)
This adorable pooch isn’t just for show. Sure, he’s a nice companion to have around when you’re surrounded death and the horrible conditions that come with war, but he also holds his own as a useful ally. He can get into areas you can’t access, being an asset during puzzles, and he also lends a helping hand when you’re in battle. However, the coolest part of Max is how he connects all the characters in the game together. He somehow manages to make his way to all of them. Everybody needs a pup to get them through the trying times.
Jesus (South Park: The Stick of Truth)
Who’s got your back? As a summon in South Park: The Stick of Truth, Jesus sure does. All you need to do is call him and Jesus gets down to business, putting on his shades and bringing an M16A1 into battle. Anyone giving you trouble won’t last long, making him your best summon for tough boss fights. So just remember when all looks lost, turn to Jesus. He’ll be your savior. Talk about a sidekick whose power knows no bounds.
Up next: your best mech friend, an eight-year-old with some sass, and a hilarious hobo....